NYC marathon.

Hellen Obiri of Kenya set a women’s course record to win the New York City Marathon while compatriot Benson Kipruto won the men’s race by edging Alexander Mutiso by three-hundredths of a second. Obiri, who also won the race in 2023, finished in 2 hours, 19 minutes and 51 seconds. She was running with 2022 winner Sharon Lokedi until Obiri pulled away in the final mile and won by 16 seconds to best the course record set by Margaret Okayo in 2003. Defending champion Sheila Chepkirui finished third. Kipruto finished in 2:08.40. The photo finish between Kipruto and Mutiso topped the 2005 race that was decided by a second. Albert Korir was third, giving Kenya a sweep of the top three spots in both races.

Eliud Kipchoge and Sifan Hassan are gearing up for their first New York Marathon. Kipchoge, at 40, is nearing the end of his legendary career, while 32-year-old Hassan is in her prime. She recently won in Sydney and aims for another victory. However, she’ll face tough competition from past champions like Sheila Chepkirui and Hellen Obiri. Kipchoge, who has 11 major marathon wins, sees this race as a victory lap. He hasn’t confirmed if it will be his last major race. Both athletes are excited, but acknowledge the challenging course ahead.